Wild Hearts African Farm

The Wild Hearts Arboretum is part of Wild Hearts African Farm, a nonprofit, conservation-focused zoo located in Southwest Ohio. It is home to over 35 species of animals and proudly hold the distinction of being the first zoo in Ohio to be Humane Certified™. Each year, they welcome thousands of visitors through immersive educational experiences designed to foster a deep respect for wildlife, ecosystems, and the planet we all share. The arboretum enhances these programs by drawing attention to the vital connection between animals and the plant life that supports them—trees, in particular, being a cornerstone of healthy habitats. Through guided tours and interpretive signage, visitors learn how forests contribute to biodiversity, climate resilience, and the well-being of both wildlife and humans.

At the heart of their mission is land stewardship, with a focus on conservation not only locally, but globally. Their educational programming highlights the critical role African farmers play in protecting native landscapes and species, drawing parallels to sustainable practices they encourage there in Ohio. Many of the trees on the grounds were preserved or planted to reflect these values. A striking example is their collection of mature green ash trees (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), which are increasingly rare in the region due to the devastation of the Emerald Ash Borer. These trees, some predating the founding of their organization, serve as living reminders of the fragility of native tree populations and the urgent need for conservation and restoration.